Year in Photos 2012

Times Union photographers share their best shots for 2012

December 28, 2012 9:52 AM

Photo: Cindy Schultz/Albany Times Union

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JOHN CARL D'ANNIBALE: December has been a difficult month to be a news photographer, with so
many funerals for such young souls. So when asked to prepare some year
in review photos, maybe it was natural to think back to the first full
day of summer and a young family exploring the Island Spouter at
Saratoga Spa State Park. On a glorious summer day, I had just enough
time between jobs in Saratoga Springs to take a drive through the park.
There, wading in Geyser Brook, I found Lynn Collisson of East Hampton,
Conn., and her sons, Brian, Doug and Adam looking as though they had
just stepped out of a Norman Rockwell painting. They had accompanied
their father on a business trip to Saratoga, and Lynn was keeping the
boys cool and occupied as dad attended a meeting. A pleasant memory for
a gray winter day. less

JOHN CARL D'ANNIBALE: December has been a difficult month to be a news photographer, with so
many funerals for such young souls. So when asked to prepare some year
in review photos, maybe it ... more

Photo: John Carl D'Annibale

JOHN CARL D'ANNIBALE: December has been a difficult month to... Photo-3953818.54446 - Times Union

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MICHAEL P. FARRELL: This is my favorite photograph that I took for the Times Union in 2012. As in many days and events, sometimes the magic moment is found in the surroundings, not on center stage. This day in August, there were trophy winners, and I photographed them, too. In this photograph, I see the “Seven Ages of Man” speech from Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” as an equivalent to the varied personalities of these contestants in the ages 4 through 6 group as they wait while the judges tabulate scores during the annual Uncle Sam Pageant in Troy. We may have a glimpse of who these young ladies could become from their juxtapositions and gestures captured, but as Doris Day sang in 1956: "When I was just a little girl I asked my mother, 'What will I be? Will I be pretty? Will I be rich?' Here’s what she said to me: 'Que sera, sera. Whatever will be, will be. The future’s not ours to see. Que sera, sera. What will be, will be.'" less

MICHAEL P. FARRELL: This is my favorite photograph that I took for the Times Union in 2012. As in many days and events, sometimes the magic moment is found in the surroundings, not on center stage. This day in ... more

Photo: Michael P. Farrell

MICHAEL P. FARRELL: This is my favorite photograph that I took for... Photo-3953819.54446 - Times Union

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LORI VAN BUREN: My shift was almost over last May when I got the call about a bear in a tree in
the Stockade section of Schenectady. I quickly drove over there and was
able to identify the location by a growing crowd of people staring and
taking photos through the space between two houses. I saw my colleague,
Mike Goodwin, who had been jogging nearby and informed me that we might
be able to knock on the door to one of the houses and get a better view
from inside. So we tried, and a woman let us in and up the stairs. She pointed at a small window, and out we climbed onto a flat part
of the roof. Nice! We had a great exclusive view of the bear. Well, it
soon wasn’t so exclusive. Just about every journalist in the area
followed our lead, and we were surrounded by cameramen on top of a roof
that we didn’t even know was safe. Even Assemblyman James Tedisco
climbed out that small window to join us for a better view. After
waiting unsuccessfully for the bear to come down on its own, officials
on the ground decided to tranquilize the bear. A shot went off. Got it!
Now the bear climbed higher. The journalists and the crowd gasped. After a little while, a second shot went off. Got it! The bear
climbed higher in the tree. People yelled “No, don’t go higher!” More
time went by and a third dart hit the bear. Again the bear climbed
nearly to the top of the tree without his heavy body breaking a fragile
limb. Luckily, I was on my stomach using my arms and elbows as a tripod.
Otherwise, my arms would have been extremely tired from holding my
camera with a long lens up to my eye. Then it happened, ever so
silently, then a thud. This was the first time I had had to photograph
this situation. Six days later, I was shooting a different bear up a
tree in North Greenbush. less

LORI VAN BUREN: My shift was almost over last May when I got the call about a bear in a tree in
the Stockade section of Schenectady. I quickly drove over there and was
able to identify the ... more

Photo: Lori Van Buren

LORI VAN BUREN: My shift was almost over last May when I got the... Photo-3953820.54446 - Times Union

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SKIP DICKSTEIN: The one image that stands out for me this year is this one of Air Force One leaving Albany International Airport after President Obama’s visit to the nanoscience complex at the University at Albany in March. It was a nasty mid-40s day with sheet rain and dark skies, which further complicated making images of this aircraft during the President’s arrival and departure. Inclement weather aside, we still had to record this event. The image captures the moment when Air Force One took off and flew above the security team that was watching for anything unforeseen. What is impressive to me is the fact that this aircraft is a true icon. It carries the most powerful person in the free world on his trips and is recognizable anywhere. The image was made with a Nikon D4 with a 200-400mm f 4.0 zoom. The ISO was 2500. less

SKIP DICKSTEIN: The one image that stands out for me this year is this one of Air Force One leaving Albany International Airport after President Obama’s visit to the nanoscience complex at the University at ... more

Photo: SKIP DICKSTEIN

SKIP DICKSTEIN: The one image that stands out for me this year is... Photo-3953823.54446 - Times Union

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PAUL BUCKOWSKI: There are times I show up at a place to photograph an event where the people there just go out of their way to make me feel welcome. This photograph, one of my favorites from 2012, was from that kind of day. The Muslim Community Center held their youth carnival on a Sunday in August to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, a holiday marking the end of Ramadan. The adults and children alike were just wonderful to me. I spent some time with a group of men huddled around outside grills cooking chicken and asked them questions about Eid and Ramadan and its importance in their lives. Right after I left the men grilling, I saw this scene of teenage girls in their colorful headscarves trying their hand at getting cotton candy onto the paper sticks for the younger children. I love it when subjects can just forget I’m there and allow me to photograph them, and this moment was just that. I wish I could have spent the day there photographing, but there were other assignments to be done. Still, the limited time I was there was just great. less

PAUL BUCKOWSKI: There are times I show up at a place to photograph an event where the people there just go out of their way to make me feel welcome. This photograph, one of my favorites from 2012, was from that ... more

Photo: Paul Buckowski

PAUL BUCKOWSKI: There are times I show up at a place to photograph... Photo-3953822.54446 - Times Union

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CINDY SCHULTZ: Although surprised at the Times Union’s interest, the owner allowed me
in this predominately male establishment to take pictures. He gave me
free rein, and I worked knowing I had to handle this assignment very
carefully. It was May 2003 and associate editor William Dowd had decided
to write a funny, risque piece on the Best Place for Lunch for that
year’s “Best Of” section. I used a D1H digital camera, the best in its day, with a 14mm lens. The
setting was a dimly lit room with bright stage lights. Anticipating a
difficult lighting situation, I brought a light on a stand, which
created the bright spotlight in this picture. I wanted to show the
clientele, but I had to do it in such a way as to protect their privacy
and identity. My goal was to compose a titillating image that was
suitable for publication. In the end, the story was killed and this image sat in the archives
until this past October. The picture proved newsworthy when Nite Moves
became a place of interest. The strip club’s owner was trying to
convince the Court of Appeals that pole dancers are choreographic
performers and should receive the same tax exemptions as ballet
dancers. The judges didn’t buy his argument, but the unusual case
received national attention, including a segment on "The Colbert
Report." less

CINDY SCHULTZ: Although surprised at the Times Union’s interest, the owner allowed me
in this predominately male establishment to take pictures. He gave me
free rein, and I worked knowing I ... more

Photo: CINDY SCHULTZ

CINDY SCHULTZ: Although surprised at the Times Union’s interest,... Photo-3953821.54446 - Times Union

Justin French of Guilderland,left, holds up his baby son Julien French for mom, Albany Law School graduate Christine French, to kiss during the Processional of Albany Law's 161st Commencement at Saratoga Performing Arts Center Friday May 11, 2012. (John Carl D'Annibale / Times Union) less

Justin French of Guilderland,left, holds up his baby son Julien French for mom, Albany Law School graduate Christine French, to kiss during the Processional of Albany Law's 161st Commencement at Saratoga ... more

Photo: John Carl D'Annibale

Justin French of Guilderland,left, holds up his baby son Julien... Photo-2927381.54446 - Times Union

Yesterday's record rainfall turns the the Cohoes Falls on the Mohawk River into a spectacular backdrop for the 3rd Annual Falls View Park Jack-o-Lantern Jubilee at Brookfield Falls View Park in Cohoes Saturday Oct. 20, 2012. (John Carl D'Annibale / Times Union) less

Yesterday's record rainfall turns the the Cohoes Falls on the Mohawk River into a spectacular backdrop for the 3rd Annual Falls View Park Jack-o-Lantern Jubilee at Brookfield Falls View Park in Cohoes Saturday ... more

Photo: John Carl D'Annibale

Yesterday's record rainfall turns the the Cohoes Falls on the... Photo-3619977.54446 - Times Union

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Sis. Maggie Lee Terrell, at right with microphone, sings "I'm On My Way to Heaven" during funeral services for Pastor Emeritus Willis F. Bruton at Sweet Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Albany Thursday June 28, 2012. (John Carl D'Annibale / Times Union) less

Sis. Maggie Lee Terrell, at right with microphone, sings "I'm On My Way to Heaven" during funeral services for Pastor Emeritus Willis F. Bruton at Sweet Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Albany Thursday June ... more

Photo: John Carl D'Annibale, Albany Times Union

Sis. Maggie Lee Terrell, at right with microphone, sings... Photo-3953997.54446 - Times Union

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Mary and Edwin Lansing of Latham celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary at Millview Assisted Living in Colonie Thursday April 19, 2012. Mary Ann (Powell) was married to Edwin Lansing on April 18,1942 at St. Patrick?s Church in Watervliet. They met at Guptil's Roller Skating Rink when Edwin, standing on the balcony, pointed to Mary skating below and told his friend that was the girl he was going to marry. Soon after their marriage Mary joined Edwin at Camp Landing Fla., and then Camp Campbell, Tenn., where Edwin served as a technical sergeant while Mary worked as a milliner. Upon Edwin?s discharge from the military they moved to Latham, where they resided until moving to MillView Assisted Living in Cohoes last year. Edwin worked many years in the auto industry, and Mary for the Colonie School District preparing meals at Blue Creek School. They have two children, Dale Ann Hosack of Anchorage, Alaska, and Richard Lansing of Latham; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. (John Carl D'Annibale / Times Union) less

Mary and Edwin Lansing of Latham celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary at Millview Assisted Living in Colonie Thursday April 19, 2012. Mary Ann (Powell) was married to Edwin Lansing on April 18,1942 at St. ... more

Corrie Terry, left, speaks as four-year-old Aviell Chairs of Schenectady holds a sign in honor of Trayvon Martin during the "Hoodies In the Hood March 4 Justice" in Albany N.Y., Saturday March 24, 2012. Trayvon Martin, 17, who was wearing a hoodie, was shot dead in Florida after being confronted by a neighborhood watch captain last month. His death has sparked national attention. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union) less

Corrie Terry, left, speaks as four-year-old Aviell Chairs of Schenectady holds a sign in honor of Trayvon Martin during the "Hoodies In the Hood March 4 Justice" in Albany N.Y., Saturday March 24, 2012. Trayvon ... more

A demonstration scene is filmed for the HBO movie "MUHAMMAD ALI?S GREATEST FIGHT" on the stairs of the State Education building in Albany N.Y. Thursday May 10, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union)

A demonstration scene is filmed for the HBO movie "MUHAMMAD ALI?S GREATEST FIGHT" on the stairs of the State Education building in Albany N.Y. Thursday May 10, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union)

Photo: Michael P. Farrell, Albany Times Union

A demonstration scene is filmed for the HBO movie "MUHAMMAD... Photo-3954029.54446 - Times Union

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Actor Christopher Plummer, left, on the set of the HBO movie "MUHAMMAD ALI?S GREATEST FIGHT" on the stairs of the State Education building in Albany N.Y. Thursday May 10, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union)

Actor Christopher Plummer, left, on the set of the HBO movie "MUHAMMAD ALI?S GREATEST FIGHT" on the stairs of the State Education building in Albany N.Y. Thursday May 10, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union)

Photo: Michael P. Farrell, Albany Times Union

Actor Christopher Plummer, left, on the set of the HBO movie... Photo-3954031.54446 - Times Union

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Columbia catcher Ryan Henchey walks back into position as Baldwinsville celebrate a run scored during their Class AA state regional boy's high school baseball game at the Plumeri Sports Complex in Albany N.Y. Tuesday June 5, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union) less

Columbia catcher Ryan Henchey walks back into position as Baldwinsville celebrate a run scored during their Class AA state regional boy's high school baseball game at the Plumeri Sports Complex in Albany N.Y. ... more

Photo: Michael P. Farrell, Albany Times Union

Columbia catcher Ryan Henchey walks back into position as... Photo-3954032.54446 - Times Union

Mona Ramouni, who is blind, talks with local media following her arrival at Albany International Airport with Cali her guide horse in Colonie N.Y. Tuesday June 26, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union)

Mona Ramouni, who is blind, talks with local media following her arrival at Albany International Airport with Cali her guide horse in Colonie N.Y. Tuesday June 26, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union)

Photo: Michael P. Farrell, Albany Times Union

Mona Ramouni, who is blind, talks with local media following her... Photo-3954034.54446 - Times Union

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Twelve-year-old ball boy Andy Bindelglass retrieves Times Union photographer Michael P. Farrell's fedora after a gust of wind blew it on to the field during the Shenendehowa-Bethlehem boys' soccer game in Clifton Park, NY Saturday Sept. 22, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union) less

Twelve-year-old ball boy Andy Bindelglass retrieves Times Union photographer Michael P. Farrell's fedora after a gust of wind blew it on to the field during the Shenendehowa-Bethlehem boys' soccer game in ... more

Schenectady Police Sgt. Adriel Linyear plays the bad guy as he is grabbed by Rensselaer Sheriff K-9 Cody during a multi agency K-9 and mounted police law enforcement crowd control exercise at the Rensselaer County Jail in Troy, NY Friday Nov. 9, 2012. (Michael P. Farrell/Times Union) less

Schenectady Police Sgt. Adriel Linyear plays the bad guy as he is grabbed by Rensselaer Sheriff K-9 Cody during a multi agency K-9 and mounted police law enforcement crowd control exercise at the Rensselaer ... more

From left, Vincent Miranda punches David Telesco with a hard left as they box during the ESPN2's Friday Night Fights at the Times Union Center on Friday, May 18, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union) less

From left, Vincent Miranda punches David Telesco with a hard left as they box during the ESPN2's Friday Night Fights at the Times Union Center on Friday, May 18, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. (Lori Van Buren / Times ... more

Photo: Lori Van Buren, Albany Times Union

From left, Vincent Miranda punches David Telesco with a hard left... Photo-3954085.54446 - Times Union

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Hser Mu Lah, third from left, of Albany gets free ice cream for her children Shinny Htoo, 4, second from left, Keziah Htoo, 3, and her friend's daughter Christer Say, 11 from scoopers Shawn Morris, left, and Patrick McBride during National Night Out Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. The Delaware Avenue Neighborhood Association sponsored this event at the Albany Public Library on Delaware Avenue. National Night Out consist of crime prevention events, block parties, and activities for the kids throughout the City that will bring communities together and promote police-community partnerships. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union) less

Hser Mu Lah, third from left, of Albany gets free ice cream for her children Shinny Htoo, 4, second from left, Keziah Htoo, 3, and her friend's daughter Christer Say, 11 from scoopers Shawn Morris, left, and ... more

UAlbany's John Puk, center, and Jayson Guerrier try to come down with a rebound against UMBC's Jake Wasco during a basketball game at the SEFCU Arena on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union) less

UAlbany's John Puk, center, and Jayson Guerrier try to come down with a rebound against UMBC's Jake Wasco during a basketball game at the SEFCU Arena on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. (Lori Van Buren ... more

People participate in the annual Lake George Polar Plunge Sunday,... Photo-3954089.54446 - Times Union

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A pedestrian walks down a path in Lincoln Park during a snowstorm Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. The Capital Region finally has received a significant snowfall. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union)

A pedestrian walks down a path in Lincoln Park during a snowstorm Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. The Capital Region finally has received a significant snowfall. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union)

Photo: Lori Van Buren, Albany Times Union

A pedestrian walks down a path in Lincoln Park during a snowstorm... Photo-3954098.54446 - Times Union

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Aaron Devel, Vice President of the Maple Ave. Fire Department, starts to fold an American Flag that was hanging from a ladder truck at a NYS Yellow Ribbon Day event April 13, 2012 at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161 in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union) less

Aaron Devel, Vice President of the Maple Ave. Fire Department, starts to fold an American Flag that was hanging from a ladder truck at a NYS Yellow Ribbon Day event April 13, 2012 at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks ... more

From left, Michelle Abdus-Shakur of Queens, N.Y., Rafaela Anshel of Queen, N.Y. and Gregory Melendrez chat after a rally held in the Convention Center Tuesday, May 8, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. Hundreds of transgender people and LGBT advocates held a rally urging passage of GENDA, transgender rights legislation as part of Equality & Justice Day. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union) less

From left, Michelle Abdus-Shakur of Queens, N.Y., Rafaela Anshel of Queen, N.Y. and Gregory Melendrez chat after a rally held in the Convention Center Tuesday, May 8, 2012 in Albany, N.Y. Hundreds of ... more

An upset friend or family member looks at the courthouse as she's driven away after a jury found Scott Chaplin guilty of 2nd degree murder for the 1994 murder of Rosemary Crosier on Friday, July 20, 2012 in Troy, N.Y. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union) less

An upset friend or family member looks at the courthouse as she's driven away after a jury found Scott Chaplin guilty of 2nd degree murder for the 1994 murder of Rosemary Crosier on Friday, July 20, 2012 in ... more

Photo: Lori Van Buren, Albany Times Union

An upset friend or family member looks at the courthouse as... Photo-3954115.54446 - Times Union

A T-6 Texan a WW II era training aircraft does a fly over during the burial ceremony of Tuskegee Airman Clarence Dart at the Green Ridge Cemetery in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Feb. 21, 2012. Clarence Dart, who battled racism and flew 95 combat missions and shot down twice in World War II with the elite African-American pilots known as the Tuskegee Airmen was buried with full military honors. ( Skip Dickstein / Times Union) less

A T-6 Texan a WW II era training aircraft does a fly over during the burial ceremony of Tuskegee Airman Clarence Dart at the Green Ridge Cemetery in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Feb. 21, 2012. Clarence Dart, who ... more

Photo: Skip Dickstein, Albany Times Union

A T-6 Texan a WW II era training aircraft does a fly over during... Photo-3954111.54446 - Times Union

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I'll Have Another with jockey Mario Gutierrez up, left out dueled Bodemeister with jockey Mike Smith to the win in the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, KY May 5, 2012

I'll Have Another with jockey Mario Gutierrez up, left out dueled Bodemeister with jockey Mike Smith to the win in the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, KY May 5, 2012

Photo: SKIP DICKSTEIN, TIMES UNION

I'll Have Another with jockey Mario Gutierrez up, left out... Photo-3954124.54446 - Times Union

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Robert Shoemaker holds his dog Oso and joined approximately 250 Anti-Helmut Law demonstrators as they decended on the State Capitol in Albany, N.Y. today May 21, 2012. (Skip Dickstein / Times Union)

Robert Shoemaker holds his dog Oso and joined approximately 250 Anti-Helmut Law demonstrators as they decended on the State Capitol in Albany, N.Y. today May 21, 2012. (Skip Dickstein / Times Union)

Photo: Skip Dickstein, Albany Times Union

Robert Shoemaker holds his dog Oso and joined approximately 250... Photo-3954114.54446 - Times Union

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I'll Have Another with jockey Mario Gutierrez up, left out dueled Bodemeister with jockey Mike Smith to the win in the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, KY May 5, 2012

I'll Have Another with jockey Mario Gutierrez up, left out dueled Bodemeister with jockey Mike Smith to the win in the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, KY May 5, 2012

Photo: SKIP DICKSTEIN, TIMES UNION

I'll Have Another with jockey Mario Gutierrez up, left out... Photo-3954118.54446 - Times Union

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Union Rags gets a tap on the nose from owner Phyllis Wyeth after winning the 144th running of The Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y. June 9, 2012.

Union Rags gets a tap on the nose from owner Phyllis Wyeth after winning the 144th running of The Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y. June 9, 2012.

Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Computer meets with "Woz" a horse that was rescued from a kill pen and now resides on the Peaceful Acres Horse Farm in Patersonville, N.Y. June, 13, 2012. Peaceful Acres Horse Farm is a farm that rescues horses of all breeds and rehabilitates them with the aid of donations and volunteers. They also incorporate human rehabilitation with animals as part of their mission. less

Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Computer meets with "Woz" a horse that was rescued from a kill pen and now resides on the Peaceful Acres Horse Farm in Patersonville, N.Y. June, 13, 2012. Peaceful Acres ... more

While leading the race over the final fence #2 Divine Fortune unseats his rider Brian Crowley and hits the ground during the 71st running of The Turf Writers Cup Stake a Grade 1 event on the main track at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Aug. 23, 2012. #7 Left Unsaid also went down after hitting the downed horse. All horses and jockeys were unhurt in the fall. less

While leading the race over the final fence #2 Divine Fortune unseats his rider Brian Crowley and hits the ground during the 71st running of The Turf Writers Cup Stake a Grade 1 event on the main track at the ... more

Photo: Skip Dickstein, TIMES UNION

While leading the race over the final fence #2 Divine Fortune... Photo-3954125.54446 - Times Union

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Military suicide widow Rebecca Morrison, gives Butter a kiss on the nose during her introduction to the Saratoga War Horse Program in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. July 25, 2012

Military suicide widow Rebecca Morrison, gives Butter a kiss on the nose during her introduction to the Saratoga War Horse Program in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. July 25, 2012

Restoration Artist Artur Matia holds on to religious sculptures that were removed from a church at 369 Livingston Ave. in Albany, to make way for the Sister Maureen Joyce Soup Kitchen, Oct. 19, 2011. Matia was tasked with restoring the religious sculptures while the church was being renovated. Eventually, the sculptures will be returned to the renovated site. (Skip Dickstein/Times Union) less

Restoration Artist Artur Matia holds on to religious sculptures that were removed from a church at 369 Livingston Ave. in Albany, to make way for the Sister Maureen Joyce Soup Kitchen, Oct. 19, 2011. Matia was ... more

Birdrun almost unseats his jockey Rajiv Marajh at the start of the 124th running of The Brooklyn Handicap at Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y. June 8, 2012. Tomorrow is the 144th running of The Belmont Stakes.

Birdrun almost unseats his jockey Rajiv Marajh at the start of the 124th running of The Brooklyn Handicap at Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y. June 8, 2012. Tomorrow is the 144th running of The Belmont Stakes.

Photo: SKIP DICKSTEIN, TIMES UNION

Birdrun almost unseats his jockey Rajiv Marajh at the start of the... Photo-3954130.54446 - Times Union

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Cassidy Chapko, right, of Hoosic Valley High School drives the lane and puts up a shot during the Class C girls' basketball final between Hoosic Valley High School and Randolph Central School on Sunday, March 18, 2012 at the McDonough Sports Complex at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, NY. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

Cassidy Chapko, right, of Hoosic Valley High School drives the lane and puts up a shot during the Class C girls' basketball final between Hoosic Valley High School and Randolph Central School on Sunday, March ... more

Photo: Paul Buckowski, Albany Times Union

Cassidy Chapko, right, of Hoosic Valley High School drives the lane... Photo-3954146.54446 - Times Union

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People enjoy lunch outside of the Nature Center following for a ceremony to unveil the newly expanded Nature Center at Moreau Lake State Park on Monday, April 23, 2012 in Moreau, NY. Money from New York Works Fund were used in the project. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

People enjoy lunch outside of the Nature Center following for a ceremony to unveil the newly expanded Nature Center at Moreau Lake State Park on Monday, April 23, 2012 in Moreau, NY. Money from New York Works ... more

Photo: Paul Buckowski, Albany Times Union

People enjoy lunch outside of the Nature Center following for a... Photo-3954148.54446 - Times Union

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AW Becker Elementary School student gets off the bus with a large bacpack and heads into his school on the first day back on Thursday, Sept. 6, 2012 in Selkirk, NY. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union)

AW Becker Elementary School student gets off the bus with a large bacpack and heads into his school on the first day back on Thursday, Sept. 6, 2012 in Selkirk, NY. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union)

Photo: Paul Buckowski, Albany Times Union

AW Becker Elementary School student gets off the bus with a large... Photo-3954156.54446 - Times Union

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Instructor Marcus Maloney, center, from Ireland watches as students perform during a class at the Camp Rince Ceol, an Irish dance camp, on Monday, July 16, 2012 at Union College in Schenectady, NY. The camp runs a week long and there are three camps held over the next three weeks. This is the 13th year of the camp, the last seven years at Union College. The camp was started by Sheila Ryan-Davoren and her husband Tony Davoren, who were both members of the group River Dance in the mid to late 90's. Along with Irish dance classes students take classes in classical ballet, Irish language, Yoga and Irish music history. This first week has 130 students, some international. The instructors come from the U.S., Australia, Ireland and Scotland. Students range in age from 8 to 18. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

Instructor Marcus Maloney, center, from Ireland watches as students perform during a class at the Camp Rince Ceol, an Irish dance camp, on Monday, July 16, 2012 at Union College in Schenectady, NY. The camp ... more

Mattia, 8, gets cooled off as her great aunt Leslie Heermance sprays her down with a hose on Tuesday, July 3, 2012 in Rotterdam, NY. Heermance said she was unaware of the town's water conservation measure that was in place. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

Mattia, 8, gets cooled off as her great aunt Leslie Heermance sprays her down with a hose on Tuesday, July 3, 2012 in Rotterdam, NY. Heermance said she was unaware of the town's water conservation measure ... more

Photo: Paul Buckowski, Albany Times Union

Mattia, 8, gets cooled off as her great aunt Leslie Heermance... Photo-3954149.54446 - Times Union

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Church of St. Ambrose volunteer Mike Blair cuts a piece of wood on the porch of on a home he is is working to rebuild on Main St. on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012 in Rotterdam Junction, NY. The home had been severely damaged by the flood waters that struck the town. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

Church of St. Ambrose volunteer Mike Blair cuts a piece of wood on the porch of on a home he is is working to rebuild on Main St. on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012 in Rotterdam Junction, NY. The home had been severely ... more

Photo: Paul Buckowski, Albany Times Union

Church of St. Ambrose volunteer Mike Blair cuts a piece of wood on... Photo-3954150.54446 - Times Union

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Bob Conner, far left, site interpreter, begins a tour on the porch at the Grant Cottage State Historic Site at Mount McGregor on Monday, Oct. 8, 2012 in Gansevoort, NY. On the wall is a photograph of General Ulysses S. Grant and his family on the porch of the cottage. Monday was the last day the cottage was open for the season. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

Bob Conner, far left, site interpreter, begins a tour on the porch at the Grant Cottage State Historic Site at Mount McGregor on Monday, Oct. 8, 2012 in Gansevoort, NY. On the wall is a photograph of General ... more

Photo: Paul Buckowski, Albany Times Union

Bob Conner, far left, site interpreter, begins a tour on the porch... Photo-3954151.54446 - Times Union

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Josie O'Hare, 9, and her mom, Deana O'Hare from Westerlo hold a sign that Josie made as they watch the Albany Veterans Day Parade on Monday, Nov. 12, 2012 in Albany, NY. Deana said that she and her three daughters come to the parade every year rain or shine to show their appreciation for the veterans and the active duty soldiers. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

Josie O'Hare, 9, and her mom, Deana O'Hare from Westerlo hold a sign that Josie made as they watch the Albany Veterans Day Parade on Monday, Nov. 12, 2012 in Albany, NY. Deana said that she and her three ... more

Shoppers with carts filled make their way through the Target store on Thursday evening, Nov. 22, 2012 in Colonie, NY. The store opened at 9pm on Thursday evening, giving shoppers an early start on black friday shopping. (Paul Buckowski / Times Union) less

Shoppers with carts filled make their way through the Target store on Thursday evening, Nov. 22, 2012 in Colonie, NY. The store opened at 9pm on Thursday evening, giving shoppers an early start on black friday ... more

Photo: Paul Buckowski, Albany Times Union

Shoppers with carts filled make their way through the Target store... Photo-3954153.54446 - Times Union

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Voorheesville's short stop Mike Young (34), left, holds up the ball after tagging out Hoosick Falls' Cody LaFlamme (44) during their Class C final baseball game against Hoosick Falls on Thursday, May 31, 2012, at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy, N.Y. Second baseman J.D. Springer (24), right, celebrates the end of the game. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Voorheesville's short stop Mike Young (34), left, holds up the ball after tagging out Hoosick Falls' Cody LaFlamme (44) during their Class C final baseball game against Hoosick Falls on Thursday, May 31, 2012, ... more

Cheyuani Jones, 7, of Atlanta, left, who's in town visiting family, hula hoops during the Delaware Library's Summer Fest on Saturday, July 7, 2012, in Albany, N.Y. Joining her are her cousin Nianna Tatro, 6. center, and Mickel Frost, 6. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Cheyuani Jones, 7, of Atlanta, left, who's in town visiting family, hula hoops during the Delaware Library's Summer Fest on Saturday, July 7, 2012, in Albany, N.Y. Joining her are her cousin Nianna Tatro, 6. ... more

Kendall LaFore, 8, of St. Augustine's School, right, holds the nozzle as she helps firefighter Frank Razzano shoot water from a hose during a tour on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, at the Troy Fire Department in Troy, N.Y. Kendall and 17 other Troy City school students received awards for their fire prevention posters, an annual competition put on by the Troy Fire Department and the Uniformed Firefighters Association. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Kendall LaFore, 8, of St. Augustine's School, right, holds the nozzle as she helps firefighter Frank Razzano shoot water from a hose during a tour on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, at the Troy Fire Department in Troy, ... more

Kidney recipient Gina Picarillo, center, celebrates as she crosses the finish line with Debbie Griner, left, and Jean Colaneri during the Freihofer's Run for Women on Saturday, June 2, 2012, in Albany, N.Y. "I did this for my donor," Picarillo said of the race. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Kidney recipient Gina Picarillo, center, celebrates as she crosses the finish line with Debbie Griner, left, and Jean Colaneri during the Freihofer's Run for Women on Saturday, June 2, 2012, in Albany, N.Y. "I ... more

Tay Fisher, who plays for the Globe Trotters, plays to the crowd during the Siena Legends basketball game on Thursday, July 19, 2012, at Siena College in Loudenville, N.Y. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union)

Tay Fisher, who plays for the Globe Trotters, plays to the crowd during the Siena Legends basketball game on Thursday, July 19, 2012, at Siena College in Loudenville, N.Y. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union)

Photo: Cindy Schultz, Albany Times Union

Tay Fisher, who plays for the Globe Trotters, plays to the crowd... Photo-3954175.54446 - Times Union

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Julia Blackin, 10, of Arlington, Va., center, hollers for autographs at the end of Giants Camp on Saturday, Aug. 4, 2012, at UAlbany in Albany, N.Y. Joining Julia are her brothers Daniel, 9, left, and Matthew, 4, right. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Julia Blackin, 10, of Arlington, Va., center, hollers for autographs at the end of Giants Camp on Saturday, Aug. 4, 2012, at UAlbany in Albany, N.Y. Joining Julia are her brothers Daniel, 9, left, and Matthew, ... more

Margo Dickson of Schenectady and her son, David, 8, relax in the grass during the opening ceremony of the 12th Annual Capital District Juneteenth Celebration on Friday, June 15, 2012, at Vale Cemetery in Schenectady, N.Y. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Margo Dickson of Schenectady and her son, David, 8, relax in the grass during the opening ceremony of the 12th Annual Capital District Juneteenth Celebration on Friday, June 15, 2012, at Vale Cemetery in ... more

Photo: Cindy Schultz, Albany Times Union

Margo Dickson of Schenectady and her son, David, 8, relax in the... Photo-3954182.54446 - Times Union

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Hall of Fame pitcher Phil Niekro, center, greets his teammates for the annual Hall of Fame Classic old-timers baseball game on Saturday, June 16, 2012, at Double Day Field in Cooperstown, N.Y. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Hall of Fame pitcher Phil Niekro, center, greets his teammates for the annual Hall of Fame Classic old-timers baseball game on Saturday, June 16, 2012, at Double Day Field in Cooperstown, N.Y. (Cindy Schultz / ... more

Charles Roth of Lebanon Township, N.J. looks out from his steamboat "Rachel Z" as he waits for passengers during the 10th Annual Steamboat Meet on Saturday, July 7, 2012, at the Waterford Harbor Visitor Center in Waterford, N.Y. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Charles Roth of Lebanon Township, N.J. looks out from his steamboat "Rachel Z" as he waits for passengers during the 10th Annual Steamboat Meet on Saturday, July 7, 2012, at the Waterford Harbor Visitor Center ... more

Photo: Cindy Schultz, Albany Times Union

Charles Roth of Lebanon Township, N.J. looks out from his steamboat... Photo-3954173.54446 - Times Union

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Shawn Zielinski, center, joins friends and family with a thumbs up during a memorial service for his son, Tylar, on Thursday, July 12, 2012, at Fonda Fultonville High School in Fonda, N.Y. Tylar, who's was known for giving the thumbs up sign, died at the age of 20 from Duchenne muscular dystrophy three weeks after graduating from high school. Shawn's fiance, Michelle Kaiser-Cade, sits next to him and shows her support. (Cindy Schultz / Times Union) less

Shawn Zielinski, center, joins friends and family with a thumbs up during a memorial service for his son, Tylar, on Thursday, July 12, 2012, at Fonda Fultonville High School in Fonda, N.Y. Tylar, who's was ... more

Photo: Cindy Schultz, Albany Times Union

Shawn Zielinski, center, joins friends and family with a thumbs up... Photo-3954180.54446 - Times Union